Speculation is rising over Nacho Monreal’s future at Arsenal as reports from Spain indicate new boss Unai Emery is lining up a replacement for the 32-year-old.

The popular Spaniard impressed last term when supplementing the Gunners attack by netting five goals in twenty-eight Premier League appearances with two assists – his highest tally for Gunners.

With only one year left on his contract rumours are rising Real Sociedad coach Aiser Garitano is keen on the former Malaga player.

Fan’s favourite Nacho’s versatilty has seen him feature at left-back, as well as a left-sided wing-back or on the left of a back three.

Arsenal boss Emery, who met with fans this week at the Emirates, is reported to be intersted in Real Betis’ left-back Junior Firpo to replace the former Osasuna defender in North London.

Spainish newspaper AS is reporting the highly-rated La Liga teenager is firmly on the former Sevilla coach’s radar.

Firpo, 19, rose through the ranks of the Andalusian club’s B team before his first debut in February.

Firpo still has three years left on his contract, however he does have a buy-out clause of £22 million according to AS – which Emery could activate before the end of the transfer window on Thursday, August 9.

Follow Arsenal writer Max on Twitter @Mahoneysmessage